OIST PhD Scholarship Program 2026

Fully Funded PhD Study in Japan | No IELTS Required | All Nationalities Eligible

Looking for a fully funded PhD opportunity in Japan?
The Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology (OIST) is now accepting applications for its 2026 PhD Scholarship Program, which covers full tuition, living costs, travel, and research expenses.

OIST PhD Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Japan
  
  

• Institution: Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology (OIST)
  
  

• Study Level: PhD (5-year doctoral program)
  
  

• Eligible Countries: All Nationalities
  
  

• Funding: Full Scholarship | Living Stipend | Research Support | Travel Allowance
  
  

• IELTS: Not Required
  
  

• Deadline: November 15, 2025
  
  

About OIST

The Okinawa Institute of Science & Technology is a world-class graduate school offering interdisciplinary PhD programs in science and technology. With state-of-the-art research facilities and an international faculty, OIST is ranked among the most innovative research institutions in Asia.

Each year, about 60 top-tier students are accepted into this highly competitive and prestigious program.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible to apply for the OIST PhD Program if you:

• Are currently in the last 2 years of your bachelor’s program, or
  
  

• Are enrolled in a master’s degree (any year), or
  
  

• Have already graduated with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a science-related field
  
  

• Meet the OIST English language requirement (formal test scores are optional)
  
  

What the Scholarship Covers

• Full tuition waiver
  
  

• Monthly living stipend
  
  

• Research support and lab access
  
  

• Relocation/travel allowance to Japan
  
  

• No application fees
  
  

Required Documents

To apply, prepare and submit the following:

• Completed online application form
  
  

• Academic transcripts and diploma(s)
  
  

• Statement of Purpose
  
  

• Two recommendation letters
  
  

• English proficiency score (optional but preferred)
  
  

• Passport copy
  
  

• ID Photo
  
  

How to Apply (Step by Step)

1. Research Faculty Units: Find a research area and professor that aligns with your interest: OIST Faculty List
   
   

2. Check Availability: Ensure the chosen unit is currently accepting new PhD students.
   
   

3. Read FAQs Carefully: Avoid disqualifying errors by reviewing the OIST FAQs.
   
   

4. Start Your Application: Submit your application online before November 15, 2025 through the official application portal.
   
   

5. No application fee is required.
   
   

Why Choose OIST?

• Ranked among Asia's top research institutions
  
  

• Diverse and inclusive international community
  
  

• Generous funding to support your academic journey
  
  

• Cutting-edge labs and interdisciplinary collaboration